Trump Challenges Tulsi Gabbard’s View on Iran’s Nuclear Progress
President Donald Trump has publicly dismissed the assessment of the US Director of National Intelligence (DNI), Tulsi Gabbard, regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities. This disagreement has sparked significant attention, especially after Gabbard backtracked following media scrutiny.
Contrasting Views on Iran’s Nuclear Program
During remarks in Morristown, New Jersey, President Trump reiterated his conviction that Iran is actively advancing toward building a nuclear weapon. He flatly rejected Gabbard’s March testimony where she stated that Tehran’s nuclear program was "not close to a bomb." “She’s wrong,” Trump asserted when reporters questioned him.
This is the second occasion within a week where Trump has openly contradicted Gabbard’s evaluation. Earlier, aboard Air Force One, he stated, “I don’t care what she says,” regarding the conflicting views on Iran’s nuclear development timeline.
Behind the Scenes Frustration
Reports suggest that Trump was privately upset by a video circulating of Gabbard criticizing political elites and warmongers for escalating tensions with Iran. Meanwhile, as regional unrest grows, Trump is also weighing potential US involvement alongside Israel in targeting Tehran’s nuclear facilities.
Tulsi Gabbard Responds to Media and Trump’s Rejection
Following Trump’s outright dismissal, Gabbard directed her frustration toward the media, accusing journalists of distorting her words to sow division. She shared a clip of her March testimony on social media, insisting that her comments were taken out of context.
“The dishonest media is intentionally taking my testimony out of context and spreading fake news as a way to manufacture division,” Gabbard wrote.
She reaffirmed her stance that US intelligence indicates Iran could assemble a nuclear weapon within weeks to months if it chooses to proceed, aligning with Trump’s goal to prevent such an outcome.
White House Defends Gabbard’s Stance
The White House Rapid Response team quickly backed Gabbard, emphasizing that her testimony actually supports the administration’s position on Iran’s nuclear threats.
- Iran has enriched uranium at levels unprecedented for a non-nuclear weapons state.
- If Iran finalizes weapon assembly, it would take weeks to become operational.
The response team rebuked the media for misrepresenting the facts and creating unnecessary division.
Support from Vice President
Adding to the support for Gabbard, the Vice President praised her as a veteran, patriot, and devoted ally in President Trump’s national security team. He highlighted her vital role in the 2024 coalition and her unwavering dedication to safeguarding the country.
Looking Ahead: Trump’s Decision on Iran
As tensions escalate in West Asia, the spotlight now turns to President Trump and whether he will authorize a military strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. The dispute between Trump's firm stance and Gabbard’s intelligence assessments underscores the complexity and urgency of the situation.
